The Application of Birds

We read in the Devotions of John Donne, "Spirantecolumba supposita pedibus, revocantur ad ima vapores" meaning "They apply pigeons to his feet to draw the vaporsfrom his head," but the word "columba"is ambiguous; it could also mean "doves." I like the idea of applying doves to the feet of a sick man better than I like the ideaof applying filthy pigeons to a person's nether extremities but what does it even mean to "apply" pigeons or doves? And how does one apply a bird to a man? And how many birds would it take to draw out those baleful vapors, to effecta cure? I know someone in need of healing. I know a manto whom the application of doves could do a positive good,but he opposes, philosophically, letting doves into his soul. So I am offering him pigeons, a basket of preening fantails. Open all your windows! Surround yourself with wings!